Friday, 20 May 2016

We’re calling for the immediate release of the Wicklow 2 – Brady

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, has called for the immediate release of Eamon McGrath and Seán Doyle, who were remanded in custody for protesting against water charges.

John Brady was part of a delegation of TDs who visited the Wicklow 2 in Cloverhill prison this morning.

Deputy Brady said:

“Eamon McGrath and Seán Doyle are in good spirits, despite having been jailed for almost two weeks. These men, who are in their sixties, are determined – they have taken a stand and will not allow their stint behind bars to weaken their resolve.

“It is disgraceful that the water metering programme continues, despite most elected TDs in Leinster House being against water charges. If the programme was to stop, these men could be out of prison immediately.

“They are well aware that the water metering programme is just a stepping stone to the eventual privatisation of this natural resource. Sinn Féin are in full support of the abolition of the programme and strongly oppose this privatisation agenda. Our Private Members Motion signed by 39 Right2Water TDs next week will put it to up to all those who opposed water charges to show their true colours and support the scrapping of Irish Water and water charges for good.

“It is ludicrous that the installation of water meters is continuing even when the government have tasked a commission to examine the regime. Eamon McGrath and Seán Doyle will be back before courts on Tuesday. We’re calling for their immediate release. We are also urging members of the public to join the 'Free the Wicklow 2' March to Cloverhill Prison which leaves from Cherry Orchard Hospital at 2pm tomorrow.”